We are deeply honored to present Paula Cole Jones as she shares her Elder Spiritual Odyssey on November 14, 2024, a special event exclusively for DRUUMM Members and BIPOC Friends. This gathering is more than a storytelling session; it is a sacred space created to uplift the journeys of our elders who have shaped and strengthened Unitarian Universalism through their wisdom, activism, and leadership. Paula’s extensive experience in faith-based organizing, as well as her pioneering work in racial justice and systemic change, highlights her lifelong commitment to fostering collective liberation within our faith.
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This Elder Spiritual Odyssey aligns with DRUUMM's vision of building a multigenerational, multicultural community where we honor and learn from the experiences of those who have paved the way. The purpose of this gathering is to deepen our connections, recognize the spiritual discipline of reconciliation, and inspire future leaders by connecting the struggles of the past with the hopes for tomorrow. As Paula reflects on her life’s work, particularly her role in the adoption of the 8th Principle and her leadership within DRUUMM, participants will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, drawing lessons and inspiration that resonate with their own journeys.
In this intimate setting, we embody DRUUMM’s value of being conscious of history—preserving and sharing the lived stories of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in Unitarian Universalism. Together, we will form a circle to hold and honor these stories, building a bridge between generations and cultivating a deeper collective identity. This event is an invitation to reflect on the shared spirit of resilience, community, and justice that defines our work and purpose.
We invite you to join us for this powerful evening and become a part of the ongoing story of liberation and transformation. RSVP at druumm.org/events to secure your place in this transformative experience.
About Our Honored Elder Paula Cole Jones
Paula Cole Jones is a distinguished Unitarian Universalist leader and Management Consultant specializing in diversity and institutional change. With over twenty years of experience, Paula founded ADORE (A Dialogue on Race & Ethnicity) in 1999, leading transformative workshops and dialogues for faith organizations and community groups nationwide. She has also served as President of DRUUMM and has been a dedicated advocate for the adoption of the 8th Principle, advancing racial justice and multiculturalism in UU congregations.
Paula’s leadership and contributions have been widely recognized. She was honored with an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Meadville Lombard Theological School, acknowledging her profound impact on Unitarian Universalism. Additionally, she received the Paula Cole Jones Transformation Award from All Souls Church, Washington, DC, for her work in fostering community transformation. Recently, she was awarded the 2024 Mel Hoover Beloved Community Award, celebrating her enduring commitment to building beloved community and advancing justice within the faith. Paula also played a vital role as a member of the UUA Commission that crafted the newest faith values, continuing her legacy of transformative leadership.
This event is BIPOC-only, a sacred space reserved for those who identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color and UU or interested in Unitarian Universalism. DRUUMM recognizes every Community of Color is impacted differently, and each community maintains its own unique identity and culture. BIPOC/People of Color/Person of Color/Community of Color is a political identity of survival and being in resistance to racism and colonialism, one that builds solidarity and creates positive change. White allies with questions or concerns are strongly encouraged to reach out to Allies for Racial Equity.
